Atiku, the African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, also called on health authorities to sustain contact tracing, provide appropriate care for the affected patient and protect medical personnel involved in containing the infection.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Atiku expressed concern over the development and commended health professionals working to prevent further transmission.

He stressed that Nigerians needed timely, accurate information and decisive action from the relevant authorities to manage the situation without triggering unnecessary public anxiety.

The former vice-president urged members of the public to follow guidance issued by health experts and avoid circulating unverified claims about the outbreak. He also highlighted the responsibility of media organisations to report developments accurately and help prevent misinformation.

Atiku called for a coordinated public health response, emphasising the need to support frontline workers and ensure that the safety of Nigerians remains a priority.

The Federal Government confirmed the Ebola infection after laboratory testing reportedly established that a woman who had recently travelled from Uganda had contracted the disease. The patient was subsequently placed in isolation and is receiving medical attention.

Health authorities said 44 contacts had been identified for follow-up. The group reportedly includes healthcare workers, patients, caregivers and people linked to the patient’s travel. Being identified as a contact does not mean a person has contracted Ebola; contacts are monitored to determine whether symptoms develop and to support early intervention.

Public health teams are working to trace possible exposures and reduce the risk of further transmission. Authorities have also urged people contacted by response teams to cooperate and provide accurate information.

Nigerians have been advised to maintain good hand hygiene, avoid direct contact with the blood and other body fluids of anyone suspected of having Ebola, and seek guidance from health professionals if they believe they may have been exposed.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention’s toll-free line, 6232, was cited in the supplied report as a channel for public information and suspected-case reports. Residents should consult official NCDC announcements for the latest guidance and reporting arrangements.

Atiku’s appeal adds to calls for public cooperation as health officials work to contain the confirmed case and prevent further spread.

Reporting by TalkNaija Media